Nantz fought back tears as he credited Lewis for helping start his television career as the host of "The Guy Lewis Show" on KPRC and as the public address announcer for UH games at Hofheinz Pavilion while a student from 1979-82.

Then came the moment.

"The whole city of Houston is rejoicing right now at this very sentence," Nantz said. "Welcome to the Basketball Hall of Fame, Coach Guy V. Lewis."

Nantz represented the 91-year-old Lewis, who was unable to attend the announcement, by holding up a No. 13 Hall of Fame jersey with Lewis' name on the back.

And in a brief phone call, Nantz congratulated Lewis and told him he had a roomful of admirers and supporters.